FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

At what stage do I involve a builder?
Get your builder in first. Simple advice from a Registered Master Builder when making critical decisions early on can save you a lot of hassle. Licensed Renovations help put you in contact with the right architects and engineers and save you time and money by walking you through a preliminary budget process with plans and pricing in the early stages.
Why is it important to select a Registered Master Builder?

Only a Registered Master Builder can provide you comfort in the knowledge that your builder is trade qualified and can offer a 10-year guarantee. Find out more.

Does my builder need to be a Licensed Building Practitioner?

Yes. To undertake any restricted building works in New Zealand, you need to be an LBP. The majority of building work (like new builds, renovations and anything requiring a council permit) require this.

Do I need a building consent?

If you are carrying out building work you may need to apply for a building consent.

Here are some examples of work that requires consent:

  • Any structural building including new buildings, additions, alterations, accessory buildings (sheds), and re-piling
  • Plumbing and drainage
  • Heating (fireplaces), ventilation and air conditioning systems

Siteworks for a building:

  • Retaining walls higher than 1.5 metres, or retaining walls with a building or driveway near the top
  • Fences higher than 2.5 metres and any swimming pool fence
  • Swimming pools
  • Decks more than 1.5 metres from ground level

Give Russell a call and he’ll be happy to talk to you through any further details.

Do I get a guarantee?

The 10-year Master Builders Guarantee will cover you for:

  • Loss of deposit
  • Non-completion of the dwelling
  • Structural defects for 10 years
  • Non-structural defects for 2 years
  • Alternative accommodation
  • You’ll also be covered by the Consumer Act and the Fair Trading Act.
Are guarantees transferable if I sell my home?

Yes, your guarantee can generally be transferred to the new homeowner. Application for the transfer must be made within 30 days of settlement. Having the guarantee gives the buyer peace of mind and will help to sell your home.

How can I keep a building project within my budget?

Licensed Renovations believes in accurately identifying the true cost of your proposed renovation at an early stage. Avoid budget blowouts, stress and time wasting with a preliminary budget that’s relevant to your project at each stage of the evolution. Find out more.

How do we pay for the building project?

You pay on a progress payment system as detailed in your building agreement. One advantage of full contract is you only need to make payments to one company and payments are made at specific stages of the project. When you receive a written contract quote, we will provide you with a payment schedule and also a construction schedule so you know what to expect and when to expect it.

Can I make changes during the building project?

We welcome changes to enhance your home. Any requests incurring extra labour and/or material costs will be treated as a variation to the contract. All variations will be costed and presented to you for approval - authorising the builder to carry out these changes before any works can begin.

Will the construction site be safe?

We will always endeavour to keep our construction sites safe and clean. We are members of Hazardco and will provide you with a safety information pack at the beginning of the building programme.

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